The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) says rising cases of internet fraud are tightening visa restrictions for innocent Nigerians abroad.
Chairman Ola Olukoyede, represented by EFCC Chief Superintendent CSE Coker Oyegunle, gave the warning in Port Harcourt on Monday during an event organised by the Coalition of Nigerian Youth on Security and Safety Affairs.
Olukoyede noted that internet fraud, money laundering, and economic sabotage cost Nigeria billions of naira every year. “These crimes undermine growth and deprive citizens of infrastructure, jobs, and opportunities,” he said.
Beyond the economic toll, he warned that “fraudulent practices erode Nigeria’s international image and subject innocent citizens to stricter visa restrictions abroad.”
He told youths that fraud is a dead end. “Fraud is not success; it is a trap. Easy come, easy go. Many who follow the path of ‘yahoo-yahoo’ always end up losing their freedom, reputation, and future. The law is catching up with them and digital footprints never disappear. Don’t destroy your tomorrow with shortcuts today.”
Youths Urged to Embrace Innovation
Olukoyede urged young Nigerians to channel their energy into innovation, entrepreneurship, agriculture, and the creative industry. He also pledged the EFCC’s readiness to intensify sensitisation, enforcement, and collaboration with communities to curb cybercrime.
At the same event, NDLEA representative Mathew Ewah warned that drug abuse is one of the gravest threats facing Nigerian youths. The NSCDC also cautioned against pipeline vandalism in the South-South.
In August, EFCC operatives arrested 38 suspected internet fraudsters at Mambillah Hotel, Ikorodu, Lagos, after days of surveillance. Items recovered included vehicles, phones, and substances suspected to be narcotics.
In Edo State, the Benin Zonal Directorate secured the conviction of 12 persons, including two brothers, for advance fee fraud and possession of fraudulent documents. Justice M. Itsueli sentenced them after they pleaded guilty.
The crackdown comes as the United States in July reduced the validity of certain non-immigrant visas for Nigerians to three months, with single entry. The affected categories include B1/B2 visas for business and tourism, as well as F and J visas for students and exchange visitors.
Rate, Like 👍, Comment💬, share this article and Follow us on our social media handles. You can also Submit your own story to get featured and earn rewards!
WhatsApp Channel
Telegram Channel
